These 4 Drinks Will Boost Your Morning (Warm Water & Lemon Not Included)

By Isadora Baum

Looking to wake up with an energy boost and a positive mood? Starting with a detoxifying or nutrient-packed beverage can help you out. Of course, you've probably heard of the trendy hot lemon-and-water morning trick already, as it benefits you by clearing the body of toxins and setting it into a more alkaline and less acidic state. Why is this good? Your body thrives when alkaline and it can jump start your metabolism, too.

However, it still seems basic. And, as humans, we're always looking to experiment with new ways to increase energy, too. Here are 4 other types of morning beverages that'll benefit your mind and body and set you up for a good day ahead.

Turmeric Latte

Here's why you should be waking up to a spicy, warm kick. "One of the most notable health benefits of turmeric is its function as an anti-inflammatory compound. And, long-term, chronic inflammation has been associated with inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and Alzheimer’s disease," says Ryan Warren, MS, RDN, CDN with Further Food.

So, turmeric can help to maintain the integrity of the skin, joints, gastrointestinal tract, and even the brain, he says. And, beyond its ability to lower inflammation, it's also a major antioxidant.

"Curcumin, the biologically active component of turmeric, helps to rid the body of toxins by improving liver function and stimulating the lymphatic system (which in turn assists in the natural elimination of toxic waste). In this way, turmeric is implicated in cancer prevention, anti-aging and immune-boosting effects," he adds.

It's easy to drink in the morning, too. "Just add a scoop of Further Food's Daily Turmeric Tonic to hot water or milk of your choice to make the perfect Golden Milk Turmeric Latte. Or add to any savory morning beverage for a super-boost," he says.

Tea

Try sipping on a green, black, or herbal tea in the morning, depending on what you're looking for and how you tolerate caffeine levels. For instance, tea can be very calming, but it can also make you more alert and increase brainwaves, says Maggie Moon, MS, RDN, and author of The MIND Diet.

Green tea with lemon can be great for a morning burst of energy, but not too strong to give jitters. It's also great for kicking up the metabolism and detoxing. Black or chai tea will supply the most energy. And, an herbal will be relaxing for you, especially on a chilly winter morning!

Plant-Protein Beverage

If you're looking for a trendy drink using superfoods like powders, maca, cacao, chia seeds, and other "smoothie" ingredients, a plant-protein smoothie is your best chance at waking up on a high note. Plus, it provides sustained energy and keeps you full for the next few hours, says Moon.

This will help you wake up feeling energized and it'll increase mental sharpness, so you'll head to work feeling productive and eager. Plus, if you workout in the morning, this would be a great repair and recovery drink post-workout.

Oat Smoothie

Try blending oats with yogurt, milk, fruit, and vegetables, for instance. This way, you'll get a whole spectrum of nutrients to power your mind and body, she says. And, oats need a bit of texture and thickened substance, like a yogurt, to really blend up nicely and fill you up, too.

About the Author

Isadora Baum is a freelance writer, author, and certified health coach. She writes for various magazines, such as Bustle, SHAPE, Men's Health, Women's Health, Health, Prevention, POPSUGAR, Runner's World, Reader's Digest, and more. She is also the author of 5-Minute Energy with Simon & Schuster. She can't resist a good sample, a killer margarita, a new HIIT class, or an easy laugh. Beyond magazines, she helps grow businesses through blogging and content marketing strategy. To read her work or inquire, please visit her website: isadorabaum.com.